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Competition success for LCB apprentice

An LCB apprentice from Bradford has fought off stiff competition to be crowned the nation’s top wallpaper hanger.

Lewis Boyle took the title of Junior Apprentice Paperhanger of the Year at an evening reception organised by industry trade body the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA).

The 18-year-old was invited up on to the stage at The Paint Ball, held at the Hilton Liverpool City Centre Hotel on Saturday, 27 October, to receive a £200 cash prize, as well as a trophy and certificate.

Lewis, who lives in Bradford, was given the top prize after taking part in the PDA’s Apprentice Paperhanger of the Year contest at The Hub, Doncaster, held earlier this year in June – which invites apprentice decorators from all over the UK to put their skills to the ultimate test.

Along with four other new entrant-level students, Lewis was tasked with wallpapering a three-sided booth in seven hours to impress judges Mr Mike Clow, past PDA member, and James Graham, PDA North East President.

Lewis is currently studying towards his NVQ Level 3 at the College and for the last two years has been employed by Bagnalls North based in Shipley, who have played an active role in supporting his training and development.

Lewis said:

“I didn’t feel very confident when I entered the competition as the only wallpapering I had done was at college. I’m really proud of myself and I never thought that I would come this far and win the junior title on my first attempt. I can’t wait to come back next year and have a go in the senior competition.”

I’m really proud of myself and I never thought that I would come this far and win the junior title on my first attempt.

Lewis Boyle

Neil Ogilvie, Chief Executive of the PDA, said:

“Lewis has done extremely well to win this award, the level of talent in the new entrant competition this year was very high. The competitors were judged against strict criteria, but Lewis held it together and performed well under the pressure of the competition, which ultimately saw him come out on top.”

Brewers is a long-standing sponsor of the annual competition and Simon Walmsley, National Account Manager, was at the event to present Lewis with his award.

Simon Walmsley said: “I would like to congratulate Lewis and I wish him all the best in his future career. We’re very proud to sponsor this competition and hope it will encourage the next generation into the industry.”